February 11, 2013

Pope Benedict XVI on Monday announced he would resign on Feb 28, a Vatican spokesman told AFP, making him the first Pope to do so in centuries.

"The Pope announced that he will leave his ministry at 8pm on Feb 28," said the spokesman, Mr Federico Lombardi.

A statement from the Vatican quoted the Pontiff as saying he would resign because he no longer had the strength to fulfil the duties of his office.

"For this reason, and well aware of the seriousness of this act, with full freedom I declare that I renounce the ministry of Bishop of Rome, Successor of Saint Peter," he said, according the statement.

Want more stories like this?Sign up to UCAN Daily or Weekly newsletter.